A speedy receiver who thrives in the open field, Wright played wideout for Memorial Day High School in Savannah, Ga., but has great attributes for the slot. That’s where most schools were recruiting him, and given his shifty running style and great burst after the catch, it’s a good match of position and skills.

Winston Wright

Wright played all over the field for Memorial Day, putting in time at running back as well as at safety, but his future in college is on offense. His speed causes defensive backs to give him a good bit of respect in the open field, but his best attributes might shine after the catch. He picks his way well through traffic, and once he spots daylight he bursts past defenders with acceleration that few can match.

Wright has been part of two state championships at Memorial Day, which won GISA titles in 2015 and 2017. The Blue Thunder advanced to the state semifinals in 2016 before falling. In last year’s state title game, Wright contributed a huge early third-down conversion catch to set up Day’s first score, then ran for big gains from the wildcat to put it on the doorstep for its final score in a 21-0 win.

Wright had offers from Army, Boston College, Colorado State, Duke, East Carolina, Illinois, Iowa State, Florida Atlantic, Kansas State, Marshall, North Carolina Southern Miss, Middle Tennessee State, Temple, Troy, UCF, USF, Wake Forest and Western Kentucky, as well as more from FCS schools. Duke, North Carolina, Illinois and UCF were the finalists along with the Mountaineers. Previously, he had named Boston College, along with UCF and WVU, as his top three.

“I was ready to get it over with and concentrate on my senior season,” Wright told WJCL-TV in Savannah. “I am excited. It has been a long process. I wanted to get it done so I can focus on my teammates and work for another state championship.”

Wright is the second wide receiver in West Virginia’s football class of 2019, joining fellow Georgian Deshon Stoudemire of Stephenson High School. His commitment gives the Mountaineers seven verbals in the class, which includes three on offense, three on defense and one special teamer.